Birth and Preparation of Jesus (Luke 1:1–4:13)
The Gospel of Luke begins by explaining that the writer carefully researched everything about Jesus’ life so that people could be certain of the truth. Luke first describes the birth of John the Baptist, who would prepare the way for the Lord. Then he tells how the angel Gabriel visited Mary and announced that she would give birth to Jesus, the Son of God. Mary believed God’s promise and praised Him with joy.
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, angels proclaimed the good news to shepherds in the fields. The shepherds hurried to see the baby and then shared the message with others. Jesus grew up in a loving home, and even as a child, He showed wisdom beyond His age. At the temple, He amazed the teachers with His understanding of God’s Word.
John the Baptist later began preaching in the wilderness, calling people to turn from their sins and be baptized. He prepared their hearts for the coming Messiah. When Jesus came to be baptized, the Holy Spirit descended on Him like a dove, and a voice from heaven said, “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” This confirmed Jesus’ identity and mission.
Luke then records Jesus’ family line, showing He came from the line of David and all the way back to Adam. This reminds us that Jesus came to save all people—not just one group or nation.
Before starting His ministry, Jesus went into the wilderness, where the devil tempted Him three times. Jesus resisted every temptation by relying on God’s Word. Through this testing, He showed that He was fully prepared to bring salvation to the world.
Message and Ministry of Jesus (Luke 4:14–21:38)
After overcoming temptation, Jesus returned to Galilee filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. He began teaching in synagogues, and people were amazed at His wisdom. In His hometown of Nazareth, Jesus read from the prophet Isaiah and declared that He was the One sent to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the oppressed, sight to the blind, and hope to the brokenhearted. His mission was to show God’s love and restore those in need.
Throughout His ministry, Jesus traveled from town to town teaching people about God’s kingdom. He called His disciples to follow Him and learn from His example. Jesus used parables—simple stories with spiritual lessons—to help people understand God’s truth. He taught that God values humility, forgiveness, and compassion. The greatest command, Jesus said, was to love God and love others.
Jesus also demonstrated God’s power through miracles. He healed the sick, drove out demons, fed thousands, and even raised the dead. These miracles showed that God’s kingdom was breaking into the world. People saw God’s mercy in action as Jesus cared for those who were hurting or left out by society.
Not everyone welcomed Jesus. Religious leaders felt threatened by His authority and questioned His teachings. Jesus warned them about hypocrisy and challenged them to put justice and love above empty rituals. He also prepared His disciples for future challenges, teaching them to trust God even during persecution or hardship.
Jesus spoke about the end times and His return as King. He encouraged His followers to stay faithful, watchful, and ready. Luke 4–21 reminds us that Jesus came to bring salvation, transform lives, and show the world what God’s love truly looks like.
Death and Resurrection of Jesus (Luke 22:1–24:53)
As Passover approached, Jesus knew His mission was nearly complete. Judas, one of His disciples, agreed to betray Him to the religious leaders. During the Passover meal, Jesus shared bread and a cup with His followers, telling them these represented His body and blood given for the forgiveness of sins. He asked them to remember His sacrifice through this special meal.
Afterward, Jesus prayed on the Mount of Olives, surrendering to God’s will even though He was in deep distress. Soldiers arrived, and Judas betrayed Him with a kiss. Jesus was arrested and taken to be questioned by Jewish leaders and then by Pilate. Although Pilate found no crime in Him, the crowd demanded His crucifixion. Meanwhile, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, just as Jesus had predicted.
Jesus was mocked, beaten, and led to Calvary, where He was crucified between two criminals. Even while suffering, He showed love and forgiveness. He promised paradise to the criminal who believed in Him. When Jesus died, the temple curtain tore in two, showing that through His death people could now approach God freely.
Jesus was buried in a tomb, sealed with a stone. But on the third day, the tomb was found empty. Angels told the women who visited that Jesus had risen. Jesus later appeared to His disciples, showing His wounds and explaining how Scripture had foretold these events. Their sadness turned into joy.
Before returning to heaven, Jesus blessed His disciples and promised the Holy Spirit would help them share the good news everywhere. Luke ends with Jesus’ followers rejoicing, knowing their Savior is alive forever.